Daijiworld Media Network- Phuket

Phuket, Jun 13: An Air India flight en route from Phuket to New Delhi was forced to make an emergency landing back in Thailand after a bomb threat was reported mid-air on Friday morning, triggering panic among passengers and authorities.

Flight AI 379, which had taken off from Phuket International Airport at around 9:30 am local time (0230 GMT), was carrying 156 passengers when the bomb threat was reportedly received onboard. Acting swiftly, the pilot executed a wide aerial loop over the Andaman Sea before safely returning to Phuket.

Confirming the development, officials from Airports of Thailand said emergency procedures were promptly activated and passengers were safely escorted off the aircraft in accordance with security protocols.

Flight tracking data from Flightradar24 showed the aircraft diverting shortly after takeoff, raising early concerns even before the official confirmation of the bomb scare.

While authorities have yet to disclose the exact nature or origin of the threat, security teams have cordoned off the aircraft for a thorough inspection. No injuries have been reported so far.

The incident caused temporary disruption at the Phuket airport, but operations have since resumed. Indian and Thai officials are working in coordination to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew, and further investigations are underway.